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E11

Fast Acquisition Laue Camera for Neutrons (FALCON)

Neutron Laue diffraction is an important method of neutron scattering for measuring single crystals. Laue diffraction patterns are generated in a matter of seconds from very small crystals i.e. <1mm3. FALCON has two scintillating plate detectors coupled to four iCCD cameras each, to produce a 2D projection of a large volume of reciprocal space in a single Laue pattern. Such images can be used to index complex crystal structures, characterise features such as twinning or preferred orientation whilst phase transitions can be investigated using a full range of sample environments including Low/High temperature, Magnetic field and High Pressure and combinations of these.

Situated at the end of a thermal beamtube in the E-Hall, the instrument uses a 'white' neutron beam i.e. range of wavelengths. With no monochromators from other instruments upstream, an unhindered beam of neutrons arrives at the sample.

19.02.14 The FALCON has landedAll instrument components are assembled and the complete instrument is now in place (see photo). FALCON will be in full user service in the 2014-II round. Interested users please contact the instrument scientist before application.

15.01.14 Commissioning beginsWe would like to hear from interested users with samples and ideas for proposals. Crystals can be used as test samples during the commissioning phase in preparation for entering full user service this year.

09.09.13 Beam Tests this weekThe combined beam definer/secondary shutter have been filled with high-density concrete and are now ready to be installed in the E-hall. On Wednesday, using a power of 1MW we will measure the flux of the beam and check excess radiation levels

28.06.13 From Design to Reality Several vital components have now arrived in house; IRELEC goniometer, new access staircase, and electronics rack. Modifications to the sample table will allow greater flexibility in positioning of sample environment (XYZ-drive). A Z-drive on the transmission detector will allow a greater volume of reciprocal space to be mapped.

03.05.13 FALCON breathesAfter successful installation of the two Photonic Science detectors, power checks and acquisition tests were FAST!

14.03.13 Green for GO! Mains electrical power is now installed. The pink cabinet supplies power to ancillary items e.g. control systems, computers, whilst the purple cabinet will power motors and sample environment equipment.

24.01.13 Secondary Shutter and Sample Table in the Workshop! The off-axial rotating shutter and sample table with sweeping detector arms are currently being machined in the HZB Workshop.